The first record of raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides) in Turkey

Abstract

The raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides) was recorded for the first time in Turkey on May 10, 2019, and June 5, 2019, inthe same location after 4668 nights of camera trapping in the forests of the Sarıkamış region and Allahuekber Mountains in easternTurkey. It was recorded in a Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) forest at 2340 m above sea level with extensive snow cover. Given that the nearestknown population is in the forests of Georgia approximately 105 km away, there may already be a viable population in Turkey. As anomnivorous species with a high adaptive ability and high reproductive potential, the raccoon dog has strong dispersal capability. It isconsidered an invasive species in Europe and there are some ongoing eradication activities in several countries. Therefore, we stronglyadvise that the raccoon dog in Turkey be evaluated as an invasive species and that the relevant authorities conduct extensive researchand any necessary management, especially where the habitat and local climate are more favorable for the species’ reproduction andrange expansion.